Alert 4 Sep 2026 – SW3, Ashdon Roadworks
We have put special arrangements in place for Monday – please see emails that have been sent to passengers

As the summer holidays draw to a close, the new academic year is just around the corner. Here at Acme Bus Co. Ltd., our team in Saffron Walden has been working hard behind the scenes to ensure our fleet is ready for the busy term ahead.

To help make the transition back to school as smooth and stress-free as possible for both parents and students, we have put together a handy checklist. Whether you are a returning passenger or joining us for the first time, please take a moment to read through our top tips.

Crucially, we ask all parents to please sit down and discuss all of the safety points outlined below with your children before the new term begins.

1. Preparation and Ticketing

• Have you booked your transport for September? If you haven’t already, now is the time to secure your space! Routes can fill up quickly, so please ensure your school transport is booked well in advance so you are ready for the first day of term.
• Check your electronic ticket: Before the first morning of the new term, please review your electronic ticket. Double-check your designated stop so you know exactly where you need to be.
• Review up-to-date timetables: Routes and timings can occasionally change between academic years. Please check our website for the most current timetables to ensure you have the correct departure times.

2. A Smooth Morning Commute

• Arrive 5 minutes early: To help our drivers keep to their schedule and ensure everyone gets to school on time, please be at your bus stop at least 5 minutes before your scheduled departure.
• Track your bus live: Did you know you can track your bus? You can view exactly where your ride is on its route, bringing a little extra peace of mind to your morning routine and ensuring you never miss your connection.

3. Safety and Behaviour on the Bus

Keeping our passengers and drivers safe is our absolute priority. A reminder of the key safety rules to go over with your children:

• Buckle up: Please make sure you wear a seatbelt at all times where they are fitted on the vehicle.
• Stay seated safely: For your own safety, you must remain seated throughout the journey, particularly on the upper decks. There is strictly no running about on the bus.
• Do not distract the driver: Please do not disturb the driver when the bus is in motion so they can keep their full attention on the road.
• Respect your surroundings: We want the journey to be pleasant for everyone. Please keep noise to a minimum. If you are listening to music, watching videos, or playing games, you must wear headphones.
• Keep the bus clean: No food and drink (other than water) is permitted on the bus. Please take your rubbish home and leave the vehicle clean for the next person.
• Stay alert when disembarking: Put your mobile phone away in your pocket when leaving the bus and crossing the road so you are fully aware of your surroundings.
• Crossing the road safely: This is perhaps our most important safety tip. When you get off the bus, always wait for the bus to move off before crossing the road. This ensures you have a clear view of approaching traffic and that other drivers can see you clearly.

From all of the drivers and the wider team at the depot, we hope you enjoy the rest of your summer break. We look forward to welcoming you aboard in September!